Fantasy Sports with Eric Karabell

Welcome to SportsNation! On Wednesday, ESPN.com Insider Eric Karabell will drop by to take your questions and analyze all the latest sports news from a fantasy perspective.

Karabell contributes to ESPN's fantasy sports coverage across all of the company's platforms, from TV to radio, podcasts to blogs and even in ESPN The Magazine. He is a charter member of the Fantasy Sports Writers Association Hall of Fame. He is the author of "The Best Philadelphia Sports Arguments."

Eric Karabell

(11:01 AM)

Hello all and welcome to another fantasy sports chat session. It's an awesome day and whether you're into baseball or football, we're here to help. So thanks for showing up to ask a question or two and thanks also for reading the chat wrap and here we go!

Drew ((NY))

Hello EK, i gotta head to work so im going to throw 2 questions in here. hope you don't mind. (Q1) Will Anibal be useful in early september? (Q2) Looking forward to the playoffs, would u rather pick up Gee or Archie?

Eric Karabell

(11:02 AM)

I do think Anibal Sanchez of the Tigers will be back in about two weeks and will be useful. They really need him. And at this point one should assume Archie Bradley isn't going to be a factor. I'd go with Gee.

Alan (Dallas)

Who has the best fantasy season..T Richardson or S Jackson

Eric Karabell

(11:03 AM)

Yuck, do I have to choose? I'll say Richardson because at least he's healthy and can fake his way to 1,000 yards and 7 TDs based on volume. Jackson just can't stay healthy, it appears.

Ralph (Atlanta, GA)

Does Fozzy Whittaker have a chance at fantasy relevance now that Kenjon Barner is out of the way in Carolina? Or does Tolbert block him as a receiving-type back? Thank you

Eric Karabell

(11:04 AM)

Doubtful. DeAngelo is the starter and Jonathan Stewart appears somewhat healthy and ready to contribute. Perhaps the Panthers were going to release Barner. He might have value in Philly now if there's an injury. Chip Kelly loves the Oregon players.

Pat (Chicago)

I know this is a good problem to have, but would you rather keep Alshon Jeffery or or Julius Thomas for your fantasy team this year?

Eric Karabell

(11:05 AM)

I would rather keep Jeffery, and obviously Thomas is a terrific option as well. I think Manning regresses more than most with a really tough pass defense schedule. The Bears will be fine.

Tyler (Fargo)

I think Brandin Cooks will have a great year, he's in the perfect system in my opinion to succeed. Thoughts?

Eric Karabell

(11:06 AM)

In theory he is, but he's a rookie. Most rookies struggle to be fantasy relevant initially, so there's nothing wrong with selecting a first-year player or two, but don't rely on them. The Saints still have Graham and Colston and Thomas to throw to.

Drew (Orlando)

Carlos Carrasco over Jason Hammel ROS?

Eric Karabell

(11:07 AM)

Yeah I'd say that's the wise direction at this point. Poor Hammel.

Mike Ho (Hong Kong)

Eric, is Alex Rios droppable or do you think he will bounce back?

Eric Karabell

(11:07 AM)

I think he's fine for what he is, hitting for average and running on occasion, but the power is not there and he's not healthy. Rangers could shut him and Choo down any day now.

Derek (work) [via mobile]

EK! As an Eagles fan I'm excited to have the number one pick. However, is Shady over AP in a 12 team PPR the right move? That turf toe news is scaring me both IRL and fantasy.

Eric Karabell

(11:08 AM)

It's not scaring me. I think reports of Peterson having a 60-catch season are ridiculous. He's not a great PPR option, probably not a top-10 RB in that format. I'd take Charles first then McCoy and Forte. And I think McCoy is fine for Week 1. We don't want him playing in August anyway.

JJ (Boston)

In reviewing the PPR mock and rankings, it seems like drafters can wait on a QB#1. Guys like A.Luck, M.Ryan, and even T.Brady seem to be available in later rounds. True?

Eric Karabell

(11:09 AM)

Absolutely. I have no interest in Manning, Rodgers or Brees in the first 3 rounds when Tony Romo is out there, after three consecutive seasons of top-10 performance (it's true) in round 8 or later. Wait on QB.

BD (LA)

Just read your Auction League article, how much are you willing to dedicate of your budget to say, 3 "elite" players at different positions in a 12 team league? Graham/AP/Megatron worth just over half my $200 budget?

Eric Karabell

(11:10 AM)

It's not my optimum way to construct a team but I have done it before and it can work. The risk is if you pick one of the wrong top elite players. Or have no bench. But a stars/scrubs policy can work.

JJ (Boston)

Is Josh Harrison keeper material? He is eligible at almost every position, but not sure if he'll start next year or if he'll even be the same player. He seems to be sliding now even.

Eric Karabell

(11:11 AM)

He doesn't look like a keeper player to me. Eligibility is awesome but still we need top production and a safe batting average and he's a clear regression candidate when playing regularly.

Ben (Charlotte)

Julius Thomas looks great in the pre season, has he separated himself from the rest of the non Gronk/Graham pack? comfortable using a 3rd rounder on him?

Eric Karabell

(11:12 AM)

The preseason tells us nothing except who is hurt. Honestly, Thomas was already my No. 2 TE, and what he does in a meaningless August game changes nothing. Third round seems early to me but there seems very little downside with him.

Dave (TX)

Which is the better keeper? Betts or Alacantra?

Eric Karabell

(11:13 AM)

I still think Betts will be a star hitter for average, some pop and good speed, even in center field.

Derek (work) [via mobile]

If we wait on QB, should we get rg3/kaep/Foles in rounds 5-6 or rivers/romo/Brady later?

Eric Karabell

(11:15 AM)

I tend to wait for the latter tier of QBs, but it depends on the rest of your team, your patience level, if it's a keeper, many factors. And each draft is different, too. I just can't understand taking a QB top-20 overall. It's about supply and demand and there are many QBs, few RBs.

Mark (Austin)

I am able to keep one player in a PPR league. Having a tough time choosing between some bad options. Who would you pick out of Arian Foster, Doug Martin or Andre Ellington? I have the third pick of the draft - would you target a RB (Lacey, Murray, etc.) or WR/TE (Graham, Jones, etc.)?

Eric Karabell

(11:16 AM)

I wouldn't keep Foster in a keeper format, he's nearing the end. I don't think Martin is nearly as good as his rookie year. I'd go with Ellington there and then do whatever possible to get Eddie Lacy third!

Drew (NJ)

I am playing football too but this is becoming excessive... baseball playoffs are coming up...Which of these would you keep for next year w/ all the same value:Baez, Springer, Polonco, Seager, Brantley, Brandon Moss

Tom (Bath)

EK...love your stuff...but can you do what you can to get auto update on? thanks..

Eric Karabell

(11:17 AM)

Thanks and I don't know what that means. I just type. Over my head.

Steve (Kansas)

What is the earliest you would take a QB and which QB would it be?

Eric Karabell

(11:18 AM)

Each draft is different, and I have chosen Stafford or Newton in a mock or two and still been pleased with my team. I tend to wait longer on Brady, Ryan, Kaepernick, Romo. No concerns with any of them.

Craig (Philly, PA)

Safe to start Pineda at Home vs the Stros? What kind of line can we expect?

Eric Karabell

(11:19 AM)

He's never going to be safe, but I think he should provide 6 innings with the potential of 6-plus Ks, and won't get lit. But with him, one never knows.

Rick (GA)

You buying a Carl Crawford ROS resurgence?

Eric Karabell

(11:19 AM)

Not really. It's nice he's running every day, but I wouldn't get used to it.

Brian (WI)

Is Springer going to come back &#x26; contribute in September or am I holding out hope for nothing? Khris Davis is on the wire

Eric Karabell

(11:20 AM)

I do think the Astros want to give him September at-bats, but with each injury setback... it's not like Davis is homering every week. I'd keep Springer.

Joe (LA)

Keepers due! Do you trust Gronk to keep him at 23? Or would you rather have Kap at 13? PPR league.

Eric Karabell

(11:20 AM)

Round 23 and 13? Or 23 and 13 overall? Either way if those are the choices I'd say Gronk. Plenty of QBs out there.

Ben (Charlotte)

i know you and most others are down on Doug Martin, and for good reason. in a recent 16 team draft i was able to get him in early round 3 ... that's crazy value, right? if he starts drifting towards the 3rd would you pick him up?

Eric Karabell

(11:22 AM)

Definitely. There is upside. He's shown it before. I just don't consider him a top-10 RB. But he's in my top 20 still. Between worry about sharing touches, the o-line and just him in general - so much of his rookie numbers came in that one Oakland game - I'd back off. But round 3 is nice in that deep a league!

Adam (New York )

Eric Karabell

(11:23 AM)

I would keep Ball, Stacy and Jones, in that order.

Mike (NYC)

What's your thoughts on Allen Craig ROS, and should I drop him for either O. Arcia or A. Garcia?

Eric Karabell

(11:24 AM)

I would actually keep Craig owned, because I think when healthy he should be productive. Really productive. Arcia is hitting homers recently but Twins face lefties this week, and he can't hit them. I think Craig is a lot better than people think. He's not 35. Look at his past few seasons.

Drew (NJ)

Who is the handcuff in TB w/ Sims injured? Is is James or Rainey? Are either worht drafting even in a deep league?

Eric Karabell

(11:24 AM)

It's James and Rainey, and the Bucs are making it clear all 3 will get chances.

Kyle (NJ)

Hey Eric! Big fan of the show. What are your thoughts on former Phillie Carlos Carrasco. Also, do you see Trevor May turning it around, I am in a deep AL-only keeper where he is $8 for 3 years and not sure if I should drop him or Boxburger when Miguel Gonzalez returns. THANKS!

Eric Karabell

(11:26 AM)

Thanks! Carrasco always had big league stuff, and he finally showed it in relief this season. Hopefully it can continue. I wouldn't call him a top-75 starter right now, but intriguing. May's command shouldn't be this bad, but I'd take Carrasco over him. Boxberger is a strikeout monster right now but I'd think you can get cheap relief in future years.

Mark Shell (Camp Hill, PA)

Pick #5 in 1/2 point PPR....Lynch, Lacy, MegaTron?

Eric Karabell

(11:26 AM)

Lacy is in my top 5 no matter the format. Lynch is not a big receiver, and I'm taking a RB that catches passes early in PPR.

Drew (Nj)

Ackley has been really legit the past month, stick with him or drop him for Betts?

Eric Karabell

(11:27 AM)

Ackley is hitting .314 with 4 HR and 4 SB in the past 30 days. I think Betts is more likely to do that moving forward.

Matt (Philly)

Wil Myers worth a pick up in a 10 team league? Not really expecting much coming off an injury and such a long lay off but would he be an upgrade to Polanco as a bench piece?

Eric Karabell

(11:28 AM)

I'd prefer Polanco. He runs, has batting average upside assuming the Pirates don't face too many lefties. Myers has power and that's about it.

Jeff (ME)

Are you concerned about the workload of Ball or Lacy this year? Can they handle being the workhorse for 16+ games?

Eric Karabell

(11:28 AM)

Yes, they can handle it. But all players are subject to injury, expected or fluky.

Cisco (San Juan)

Eric, I just dropped Chris Davis (my first round pick!) for Michael Morse. He was putting up Mark Reynolds numbers, and there in free agency sits Reynolds as well. I HAVE NO REGRETS.

Eric Karabell

(11:29 AM)

Nor should you. It's the right thing to do. Draft day status 4 months later means nothing. Just holds people back.

chris (fla)

Keeper for next year only: Harper or Machado?

Eric Karabell

(11:29 AM)

To me that's easy, it's Harper. Machado's knees are still a problem. But if it's Harper vs. a top-20 guy, no, I think we have to back off the kid some.

Jeff (OH)

When was the last time a guy with essentially no meaningful NFL experience (Montee Ball) was going so high in drafts? I don't understand it.

Eric Karabell

(11:30 AM)

Look what Moreno did last season in that offense. And it's not like Ball was an undrafted free agent. He's a top college player, drafted real well. And he has some experience. I'd say this type of thing happens more than you realize.

Todd (Philly)

In general, should one be waiting to draft a WR (i.e. don't make your 1 or 2 picks in this area at least) given its a passing league and there could be a plethora of quality WR available? What is your personal strategy in this area?

Eric Karabell

(11:32 AM)

The term "it's a passing league" directs fantasy owners to do things in a draft they shouldn't do. What is a passing league? Running backs still get the most touches and can carry fantasy teams if you get the right ones. Think supply and demand. Plenty of WRs out there. But I tell people to draft what's comfortable to them.

Eric Karabell

(11:36 AM)

It's a decent price but it depends how many QBs will be available in the auction. Tough to beat that price on Edelman, who really could have a similar season again.

Homer Bailey (CIN)

Will I pitch again this year?

Eric Karabell

(11:36 AM)

He's supposed to and the Reds aren't eliminated yet.

Ralphie (Colorado)

Will Yu Darvish pitch again for the Rangers this year?

Eric Karabell

(11:37 AM)

He's supposed to but the Rangers are eliminated. Not sure why they'd risk it. I bet the front office is trying to explain this to the manager.

Adam(Detroit) [via mobile]

Pick #4, 14-team ppr. Lacy over AP or Forte? Thanks, EK.

Eric Karabell

(11:37 AM)

I'd take Forte there but you really can't go wrong with any. Don't overthink it.

Daniel (Brooklyn)

Eric, where do you rank Corey Kluber among SP's next year? Worth keeping in the 10th round in a league where you get 3 keepers?

Eric Karabell

(11:38 AM)

Yes, I'd say so. I don't think I'll be able to rank him a top-10 starting pitcher because there are so many safe, reliable names (like Cole Hamels, for example) but he'll be close. Him and Garrett Richards.

Goldberg (Atlanta)

Keeper question: should I keep Jordan Cameron and lose my 8th round pick or Jarrett Boykin and lose my 14th round pick? Or, I could keep Josh Gordon and pray that he only misses 8 games?

Eric Karabell

(11:39 AM)

If choosing there I'd say at least Cameron should be one of your starters. Boykin probably won't be. And since it's a keeper and Gordon could play all of 2016, depending on the round I'd consider keeping him for sure. The longer this embarrassment of his potential suspension lingers, the more likely he plays this year.

Hannes (Milwaukee)

Do you believe 6 pts per passing TD significantly raises the value of top QBs?

Eric Karabell

(11:40 AM)

Not really. Doesn't change the fact it's a very deep position and guys like Romo and Dalton and Rivers - all TOP-10 last year - are going after the 10th round. Unless you think any QB gets more than say 44 TD passes, which I don't.

Chad (Macon)

You good with Joique Bell as RB2 in a 12 team PPR format?

Eric Karabell

(11:40 AM)

Yes, I am. Nice one.

Tic Tac (Reno)

PPR draft, seems guys like Colston and P. Thomas are flying under the radar a bit thanks to Graham and the hype on Cooks. Good, if boring, picks in rounds 7+?

Eric Karabell

(11:41 AM)

Yes, definitely. Cooks is going to get overrated. All rookies seem to be.

Chad (Macon)

Do you believe 1 pt per 20 passing yards significantly raises the value of top QBs?

Eric Karabell

(11:41 AM)

I think some people are missing my point. It's about value.

Kevin (Boston)

PPR- Why no love for Pierre Thomas and Danny Woodhead in these formats?

Eric Karabell

(11:42 AM)

I think I've given them a ton of love in those formats. Top-50 players for sure in PPR.

Fransisco Liriano (Pittsburg)

Should my owners be worried about me after last night or will i still be a top 40 rest of way?

Eric Karabell

(11:42 AM)

I can't trust him. Don't have him anywhere and I know I miss the good stuff, but the bad stuff doesn't come announced.

Dan (MO`)

Who do you like best as a keeper for next year:Rendon, Hamels, Dozier, N Cruz

Eric Karabell

(11:43 AM)

I really like Anthony Rendon. Legit player, top-5 2B and 3B. And I can let Hamels go because of pitching depth.

Kevin (Boston)

BASEBALL: Soria is a must add DL stash if you have the room right? Nathan is out by Sept 1?

Eric Karabell

(11:43 AM)

I doubt Nathan is removed from the role anytime soon, especially for a guy just coming off the DL.

Matthew (Syracuse, NY)

Can I drop Josh Hamilton?

Eric Karabell

(11:44 AM)

I wouldn't argue. But as always it depends who you replace him with. If it's Arcia, sure. If it's Nate Schierholtz, no.

Bill (CA)

Who Do you like (or not hate) more ROS fiers or M Shoemaker?

Eric Karabell

(11:44 AM)

Ha, I will take Fiers for the strikeout upside. Shoemaker is a hittable guy on a nice streak, though. Fiers.

Jason (Parker, CO)

What do you expect from Anthony Rendon in Washington over the next few seasons? Do you see him returning to 2B? Thanks.

Eric Karabell

(11:45 AM)

I think he's their 3B for the next 5 years, starting in the spring. And he develops into what David Wright did for years. He'll be great.

Taco (FX)

Jesse Winker gonna get the call? Or will we have to wait for next season? What's his ceiling?

Eric Karabell

(11:46 AM)

I heard Winker's season was over with a wrist injury. The Cincy OF prospect does have upside next year, but not a big power guy. Could be platoon OF.

Ben (Charlotte)

does it look to you like Fred Jackson may actually be the "lead back" in Buffalo? seems like he's getting a bit more run on 1st/2nd down, in addition to the 3rd down/goal line work ...

Eric Karabell

(11:47 AM)

If you're learning this from preseason games, I'd reassess. They mean nothing. Why would a coach advertise his regular season game plan in August?

Jesse (NY)

EK! Take a QB in round 2 of a keeper as opposed to reaching for a Ben Tate, Andre Ellington, etc?

Eric Karabell

(11:47 AM)

No. I would not take a QB in round 2. And Ellington is not a reach. Tate prob is.

Kevin (Boston)

BASEBALL: Follow-up to Soria. But how can he not be? They are out of the playoffs right now, and Nathan has walked a hitter an inning since the ASB.

Eric Karabell

(11:49 AM)

The Tigers don't think like you and me. They want Nathan closing. They've made it clear. If they wanted Nathan out of the role and Soria was hurt then the bearded Joba would be closing. Doesn't make it right! Is it possible Soria gets saves? Sure, it is. But Detroit doesn't feel like Nathan is the reason they're in second place. Trust me.

Kyle (Oklahoma)

Based on your logic re QB, wouldn't it follow that SS should be drafted higher in baseball?

Eric Karabell

(11:50 AM)

It's not quite the same but yeah, Tulowitzki's value has been aided by this theory for years. This is the first year I'd say SS depth was truly awful. Second base too.

Adam (Phoenix)

SS doesnt mean as much to a baseball team as a QB does to a Football team

Eric Karabell

(11:51 AM)

That too. In baseball so many hitters, regardless of position, make an impact. Fewer players in football. But you can win a football league with Dalton or Rivers at QB, just like you still can win in baseball with Brendan Ryan at SS.

Pat (Detroit)

What matchup do you like Paxton today vs. PHL or Arrieta Friday vs. BAL?

Eric Karabell

(11:52 AM)

I trust Arrieta more.

Bruno (NY)

Does Molina become top 10 C when healthy and would you keep him over Montero?

Eric Karabell

(11:52 AM)

Yes, I think Yadier becomes top 10 and I'd prefer him to Miguel Montero. I wouldn't keep either for 2015 though.

Paul (Denver)

Keep Rendon or Cespedes along side Edwin Encarnacion in H2H daily points league?

Eric Karabell

(11:54 AM)

I would keep Rendon over Cespedes. Edwin over both.

Kevin (Boston)

Are you still of the opinion that Abreu is not a 1st round pick next year? I really don't see how he's not, especially if guys like Michael Brantley and Todd Frazier don't crack the top 10.

Eric Karabell

(11:55 AM)

I think Abreu has to be considered a top-10 guy now. He made adjustments, the batting average never did fall. I might push him to round 2 based on the fact first base is still the deepest hitting spot, but still, the point is clear.

Cade (NC)

Better dynasty stash; Beachy, Medlen or Parker?

Eric Karabell

(11:55 AM)

None, really. Guys coming off second Tommy John surgery. Run away. But Beachy, if you must.

Frank (NY)

Your thoughts on Chris Owings coming off DL. Is he worth owning over Betts or Santana?

Eric Karabell

(11:55 AM)

Those other guys run more, so I will rank Owings third there. But he is a potential All-Star SS.

DAVID ORTIZ (Old Age Home)

I will gladly keep drafting this guy as a .250 30+ homer guy while people whine about him being old! Still so valuable!

Eric Karabell

(11:56 AM)

Leads the majors in RBI. Always underrated.

Ricky (Baltimore)

So you're not buying the Crawford resurgence but do you think he's a better option moving forward than Josh Harrison? Or has Harrison proved legit?

Eric Karabell

(11:57 AM)

Harrison still runs and you can play him infield spots, so that's nice. I don't really buy Crawford at all.

Brandon (Avon, OH)

Hyde or Sankey in 1pt PPR keeper

Eric Karabell

(11:58 AM)

I'd probably take Sankey because he will play more this year. I do like Hyde's future in that offense for 2015 more though, potentially.

Joey (Vegas)

Eric Karabell

(11:59 AM)

Start him because he's good and the Braves strike out a lot, not because of the rehab numbers.

Glen (Tampa)

Have MJD and Lamar coming back in our keeper league. Will either one have any value this season?

Eric Karabell

(11:59 AM)

I think Lamar Miller is going to be a legit flex option most of the time. I think.

Pete (Philly)

Will Garza get his spot back the way Fiers has been pitching?

Eric Karabell

(12:00 PM)

Nope. Someone else would be bumped. Could be Lohse.

Eric Karabell

(12:00 PM)

OK, thanks to all for the fantastic questions. Best of luck down the stretch this baseball season and with your football drafts. We appreciate your attention at ESPN Fantasy and do our best.. .we couldn't do this without you! Enjoy and have a great day!